Vietnam/Combodia

Description

Vietnam/Combodia

Cambodia & Vietnam have a fascinating history filled with both prosperity and terror. Cambodia–Vietnam relations take place in the form of bilateral relations between the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The countries have shared a land border for the last 1,000 years.

Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful countries, attracting travellers to its lush mountains, bustling cities and golden sand beaches and offers widely different geography and cuisine.

There are numerous ancient landmarks and colonial structures that have survived throughout the bumps and scrapes of history. Vietnamese culture is complex, diverse and represents something of a history lesson. Ancient temples display distinctly Chinese influences in the north and Hindu origins in the south.

Home to Angkor Wat, the eighth wonder of the world, Cambodia is a striking country worth visiting as much for its people as for its culture.Adventure seekers will love Cambodia's wild northeast with its stunning scenery, alternative hill tribe cultures and wildlife.

The beautiful and extensive temple ruins at Angkor, now a UNESCO Heritage site, represent the glorious Khmer civilization and one of the most spectacular historical sites in Asia.

Itinerary

DAY 1: HANOI ARRIVAL (Nil)

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, welcome by our driver and transfer to your hotel. The driving time is approximately 40 minutes.

DAY 2: HA NOI – HA LONG           (B/L/D)

Leave the noise of the city behind as you board your traditional junk boat and set sail through UNESCO World Heritage Halong Bay. Let the vacation begin with a buffet lunch while the boat cruises towards the southwest of Halong Bay. In the afternoon, discover the mysterious Tien Ong Cave which is not only a beauty spot but also an archaeological site. Covering an area of 1,000 m2 with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, the cave is one of the finest caves in Halong Bay.

DAY 3: HA LONG – HA NOI           (Brunch)

Wake early to start your day with Tai Chi on the sundeck, as the sun rises over the bay. After a light breakfast, the boat weighs anchor to sail to Cua Van floating fishing village. Take your time to visit the village which is voted as one of the 11 insanely beautiful small towns around the world by huffingtonpost.com. You can choose either kayak or traditional rowing boat to go around discovering local life on the waters.

DAY 4: HANOI – SIEM REAP         (B, D)

Start a half day city tour beginning with the Ho Chi Minh Complex, containing the mausoleum of the nation’s founder, and his rural style residence with a house on stilts and the Presidential Palace. Also part of this complex is the unique One Pillar Pagoda, built in the 11th Century in dedication to Avalokiteshvara or Buddha of Compassion and reminiscent of a lotus blossom rising from a pond. The tour will continue on with a visit to the Temple of Literature, known as the first university of Vietnam built in 1070 by the Ly Dynasty to honor Confucius, sages and outstanding Vietnamese scholars. Enjoy lunch at Hanoi local restaurant then, you will be transfer to airport for departure flight to Siem Reap.

Upon arrival, transfer to hotel for check in. This evening enjoy dinner with Khmer Traditional Dance Show at restaurant. Overnight in Siem Reap.

DAY 5: SIEM REAP - ANGKOR TEMPLE TOUR        (B, L)

Breakfast at hotel, then transfer to full day Angkor Tour visit: the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the last capital of Angkor Period (AD 802-1432) until the 15th century, was indeed a Great City as its name implied. Bayon Temple, one of the most popular sites in Angkor complex and over 200 large faces caved on the 54 towers, which at that time represents the 54 provinces in The Khmer Empire, give this temple its majestic character, visit Phimean Akas Temple, Bapoun Temple, Terrace of the Elephant, Terrace of Leper King, Royal enclosure, keep moving on to visit Ta Prohm Temple built in AD 1186 by King Jayavarman VII. Trunks of trees twist amongst stone pillars, and spread their gigantic roots over, under and in between the stones, probing walls and terraces apart, make this temple even more attractive.

Afternoon, proceed to the World Heritage of Angkor Wat, one of the “Seven Wonders’ of the world”.

Overnight in Siem Reap, at hotel.

DAY 6: SIEM REAP – PHNOM PENH by flight         (B, L)

Breakfast at hotel.

Transfer to airport for your domestic flight to Phnom Penh

Afternoon, you will learn about the dark side of Cambodia - its more recent turbulent and harrowing history. Initially you visit the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (also known as S21), ironically a former school, located in a quiet Phnom Penh suburb, this was the infamous Khmer Rouge prison / torture centre, move on to Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda (Royal Palace built in 1866 on the site of the former citadel, a crowning example of Cambodian architecture because it is the official residence of Khmer’s King. Silver Pagoda was named because of the 5000 silver tiles (each weighing 1kg) in the floor of the temple and displayed the holiest Buddha image in Cambodia, Preah Keo (the Emerald Buddha).

DAY 7: PHNOM PENH – DEPARTURE        (B)

Breakfast will be at hotel. Free day on your own.

Transfer to Phnom Penh International airport for fly back.

Inclusions

• Accommodation at selected hotels with daily breakfast
• Check-in time is 2.00PM and check-out time is 12.00PM. Early or late service is subject toavailability with surcharge.
• Meals as mentioned
• English speaking guide
• Tours and transfers as mentioned by air-conditioned vehicle
• Sightseeing fees and permits during guided time
• Boat cruises mentioned (group join-in for Halong and Mekong)

Exclusions

• Additional Meal: lunch, dinner not mention in the package
• Please make sure you have 6 months passport validity. We can help for visa on arrival if request.
• Early/late check in/out service at hotels (surcharge if request)
• Tips and gratuities
• Services and meals if not mentioned in itinerary